We have had numerous deaths in the family with our oldest bank of these batteries.
The batteries are 4 1/2 years old and have been given great care. 10% dod, regular equalizing and water level monitoring.
Out of the original 8 batteries 3 have died and become recyclable matterial.
I would in all fairness warn potential buyers not to buy these new carbon plate batteries!
The plates in some cells have "decomposed" in much the same fashion as the raylitte batteries I disassembled years ago!
I was mistaken in assuming that the plate in the trojans were true plante plates.
On inspection they appeared to be solid lead with a carbon coating.
Have yet to pull one apart, but I suspect the plates are a compressed crumble of charcoal and lead particles.
The be honest in my opinion all carbon lead blend plates appear to be rubbish.
On a brighter note my old repurposed rolls surrettes are still going strong with the same treatment.
https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Hot-Rechargeable-3-2V-280Ah-LiFePO4_62401469185.html?spm=a2700.icbuShop.0.0.764520d22qNJc8&bypass=true
4 Cells in series @ 280AH ea = 12V/280AH pack 4 Pieces US$339.16 Shipping to USA $171.00 Total US$510.16
8 Cells in series @ 280AH ea = 24/280AH pack 8 Pieces US$678.32 Ship to US $415.20 Total US$1,093.52
16 Cells in series @ 280AH ea = 48V/280AH pack
Series / Parallel "Packs" are possible as well. * BMS dependent *
Add one BMS / Balancer http://chargery.com/balancer.asp NOW with Low Temp cutoff. ($100-150 all in pending on model)
Add a "box" to put them in and you have a full pack, (up to you)
80% useable leaving margin for longest life or 90% for standard cycle life.
NO feeding, no maintenance, no fires or explosions, 10+ years lifespan.
Lead is Dead !
Lead is like the Vampire Lestat. It's been around for over 100 years, and likely will be around for 100 more. It's just too idiot proof (mostly) to die out.
Are you going to get a LiFePo4 as your replacement?
You don't have a 'cold' climate to worry about.
I do not for the life of me know what to do! :(
Was looking at lead crystal as a cheapy experiment.
Have a contact in Bribane who has 100's of 120ah 12 volt lead crystal batteries 2 year old ex telco supply.
Have been thinking of making a trip with my battery analyiser and trailer.
They are $200 each and 99% have had no real cycling just float which if half of what has been written about LC is true they should be
80% plus life left in them. I had an ineresting idea of placing the batteries in poly tubs with water and a float to ensure water level remains constant
and also evapouration strips wrapped around the cells to keep them cooler. Our summer her in AUS has been a killer for heat and humidity this heat.
Very hot and super dry.